If you have done your research you would have been able to anticipate some of the questions by working through the advert.
There is a technique called the "STAR" technique that is being used more frequently and it works as follows:
ST - Situation or Task
Describe the situation or task and be specific about the details
A - Action
What action did you take or what did you do.
R - Result
What was the result our outcome? What did you achieve or learn from the situation.
If you answer all your questions with "STAR" in mind you will come across much better. Don't say too little and only answer yes or no (unless appropriate). Remember STAR and keep your answer to the point of the question. You are done once you've answered the question and there is no need to ramble on and on.
Issues with previous employers should be kept to a minimum and it is best not to complain too much. You never know who knows whom at your previous employer. You also don't want to make the interviewer wonder about what you will say about his or her company if you resign.
Here is a list of question that might be asked. It is a good idea to work through them and decide on the best way to answer them.
Tell me a little bit more about yourself.
Please give me an example of a time when you had to make a quick decision without having all the facts.
Describe your ideal job to me.
Tell me about a difficult decision that you've made in the last year.
What career goals have you set for yourself?
Give me an example of a conflict situation that you had to deal with.
What motivates you?
Tell me about a situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer.
Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation.
Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a company decision or policy with which you did not agree.
What is your greatest weakness?
What is your greatest strength?
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Why did you leave you last job?
Where do you see yourself in 3 / 5 / 10 years?
Why do you want to work here?
What is your philosophy about life?
What did you enjoy most and least in your last position?
What was the most challenging project you've ever worked on?
How would previous colleagues describe you?
Do you want to study further?
Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?
How would you generate new business in this industry?
What was your biggest challenge as a manager?
Why should I employ you?
Are you willing to be transferred?
Are you willing to travel?
How do you track the progress on delegated tasks?
Tell me about a time when you had to sell a tough idea or concept.
How would you handle a someone who is not part of the team?
Some of these answers might be funny outside of the interview. However, they will make you look immature and socially inept. Humour will assist in building your relationship with the interviewer, but only if used correctly and at the right time.
Remember:
It is also important to remember that some questions are illegal in South Africa and can be considered discriminatory. This includes questions about your sexual orientation, race, future plans in terms of more children, religious and political beliefs, etc. All questions should be centred on your fit to the company and the position.
JOB SEARCH
Today most companies use interview formats that test your competencies and behaviour (which has been found to be a reliable indicator of your future behaviour). A lot of questions will therefore look like this: